A vast network of more than 1300 volunteers currently help 1000 people aged 75 and over who live alone enjoy the company of others in their local community over Sunday afternoon tea.

Morna O’May, head of services, Scotland for Contact the Elderly said: “To be selected as a finalist for this award is an incredible achievement and we are all thrilled.

“Our presence has grown significantly in recent years but we are always aware there are so many more people we could be supporting and volunteers we could potentially be working with. We hope being shortlisted for this award helps to highlight the very simple, yet incredibly effective, free service we offer.”

To find out more about Contact the Elderly, visit www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk or email guest@contact-the-elderly.org.uk.